French Second Empire Commemorative Medal, 1821–1857
Key Information:
• Country: France
• Medal: Médaille de Sainte-Hélène (Saint Helena Medal)
• Material: Bronze
• Ribbon: Original-style green ribbon with red vertical stripes
• Suspension: Crown suspension
• Dimensions approx.: 50.87 × 31.33 mm
• Period: Issued during the reign of Napoleon III (1857)
• Naming: Unnamed as issued (no name on rim)
Medal Design:
Obverse:
Laureate bust of Emperor Napoleon I facing right, surrounded by a laurel wreath.
Reverse:
Circular inscription within a laurel wreath commemorating Napoleon’s companions in arms and his final exile.
French inscription (reverse):
A SES COMPAGNONS DE GLOIRE SA DERNIÈRE PENSÉE STE HÉLÈNE 5 MAI 1821
English translation:
To his companions in glory, his final thought. Saint Helena, 5 May 1821.
For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Condition:
Very good original condition.
Natural age-related patina consistent with period bronze medals.
Ribbon shows typical age wear but remains intact and presentable.
No enamel (as issued for this type).
No damage or repairs observed.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Saint Helena Medal was instituted in 1857 by Emperor Napoleon III to honor surviving veterans who served France under Napoleon I between 1792 and 1815.
It commemorates loyalty, military service, and Napoleon’s legacy, marking the date of his death on Saint Helena.
This medal is an important and highly collectible piece of Napoleonic and French military history.
Summary:
Authentic French Saint Helena Medal with original ribbon.
A classic Second Empire issue honoring veterans of the Napoleonic Wars.
Highly desirable to collectors of French, Napoleonic, and 19th-century military decorations.
Please refer to the pictures.